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When to Get Off the Ice: Canyon Ferry, Fort Peck & Flathead Lake Safety Before Ice-Out
Read More: When to Get Off the Ice: Canyon Ferry, Fort Peck & Flathead Lake Safety Before Ice-OutMontana’s ice fishing season nears end as March brings dangerous ice conditions. Essential safety tips for Canyon Ferry, Fort Peck & Flathead Lake.
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Jefferson River Fishing Report (Early Spring 2026): Where to Find Trout, Best Nymphs, and the Afternoon Bite
Read More: Jefferson River Fishing Report (Early Spring 2026): Where to Find Trout, Best Nymphs, and the Afternoon BiteThe Jefferson River is fishing tough but doable in early spring. Slow down, get deep in softer inside water, and plan around late morning through mid-afternoon. Here’s the latest Jefferson River report from Fins and Feathers (2/5 on March 9, 2026), including the nymph and streamer patterns producing now.
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Montana Dangerous Ice Warning (March 11, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Holter, Fort Peck & Flathead Lake Conditions
Read More: Montana Dangerous Ice Warning (March 11, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Holter, Fort Peck & Flathead Lake ConditionsMid-March is Montana’s most dangerous stretch for ice fishing. Here’s what local guides, marina operators, and FWP officials are seeing on Canyon Ferry, Holter, Fort Peck, and Flathead—plus late-season safety gear, best practices, and when to switch to open water.
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NW Montana Fishing Report (March 5, 2026): Echo Open, Flathead Lake Laker Bite, Koocanusa Rainbows — Chancy’s Fish Camp
Read More: NW Montana Fishing Report (March 5, 2026): Echo Open, Flathead Lake Laker Bite, Koocanusa Rainbows — Chancy’s Fish CampNorthwest Montana waters are opening up fast. Chancy’s Fish Camp reports Echo Lake is fully open with early smallmouth showing, McGregor is producing lake trout and rainbows, Flathead Lake is fishing well for lakers, and Koocanusa is kicking out rainbows and bull trout. Plus: which Flathead River sloughs are open, a Thompson River update, and…
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Canyon Ferry Lake Ice Is Gone: Boat Ramps Open and Spring Fishing Season Is Underway
Read More: Canyon Ferry Lake Ice Is Gone: Boat Ramps Open and Spring Fishing Season Is UnderwayWinter finally let go at Canyon Ferry Lake: the ice is officially gone, boats are already launching, and the ramps are open for spring anglers ready to get back on open water.
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Fort Peck Ice Fishing Report (March 6, 2026): Rock Creek Lakers in 65–80 Feet as Warm Front Threatens Safe Ice
Read More: Fort Peck Ice Fishing Report (March 6, 2026): Rock Creek Lakers in 65–80 Feet as Warm Front Threatens Safe IceA short cold snap tightened the ice on Rock Creek just enough for Don Wilkins to get back out on Fort Peck and pick up several lake trout on jigs and plastics in 65–80 feet—while warning that a warm front could quickly end safe ice. Here’s the latest report, plus safety reminders before you go.
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Tongue River Reservoir Ice Update: Open Water at Ramps, But Boating Still Limited (FWP Report)
Read More: Tongue River Reservoir Ice Update: Open Water at Ramps, But Boating Still Limited (FWP Report)Spring breakup is underway at Tongue River Reservoir, with open water at both ramps and a few boats already out. But ice still blocks key stretches near the dam, between Sand Point and Pee Wee north, and at the far south end—limiting where you can safely travel right now. Here’s the latest access and ice…
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Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (March 2): Hell Creek Marina Says “Walk-On” Conditions Are Back
Read More: Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (March 2): Hell Creek Marina Says “Walk-On” Conditions Are BackHell Creek Marina in Jordan, Montana shared a March 2 ice update for Fort Peck Lake: based on water clarity, it appears the lake has rolled over and conditions are back to walk-on. Here’s what to know and what to watch next.
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Livingston, MT Fishing Report (Feb 15–Mid-March): Prime Afternoons, Slow Water, and a Growing Shot at Big Pre-Spawn Rainbows
Read More: Livingston, MT Fishing Report (Feb 15–Mid-March): Prime Afternoons, Slow Water, and a Growing Shot at Big Pre-Spawn RainbowsWinter still has a say, but the Livingston-area bite improves steadily through mid-March—especially for bigger pre-spawn rainbows. Focus on afternoons (possibly late morning by March 1), fish low-and-slow in deep walking-pace pools, and watch for brief midge or winter BWO activity on warm, calm days. Here’s the latest river-by-river guidance from Yellowstone Country Fly Fishing.
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Tongue River Marina Ice Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Open Water Growing Near Ramp, Marina Bay Still Iced
Read More: Tongue River Marina Ice Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Open Water Growing Near Ramp, Marina Bay Still IcedTongue River Marina reports 15–20 feet of open water off the ramp, with Marina Bay still mostly iced over but improving. More open water is showing from Rattlesnake south toward the mine as daytime temps warm—boat fishing could be just weeks away.
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Whitefish & Kalispell Fishing Report (Feb. 27, 2026): Whitefish Lake Ice Holds Strong, Flathead River Bites on Sunny Days
Read More: Whitefish & Kalispell Fishing Report (Feb. 27, 2026): Whitefish Lake Ice Holds Strong, Flathead River Bites on Sunny DaysWinter isn’t letting go yet—Whitefish Lake remains locked up with lake trout cruising deep structure, while the Flathead River rewards anglers who time it right. Here’s what’s producing now, from white tubes tipped with cutbait on the ice to nymphs and streamers in late-winter river water.
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Bitterroot Lake Ice Update (Feb. 27, 2026): 4–5 Inches at North Access, Open Water at Reeds & South Ramp — No Machines
Read More: Bitterroot Lake Ice Update (Feb. 27, 2026): 4–5 Inches at North Access, Open Water at Reeds & South Ramp — No MachinesBitterroot Lake ice has shrunk significantly with warm weather and wind. The north end county access is now 4–5 inches, the reeds are open water, and the south end boat access has open water at the ramp. No machines. Mandatory check-in at the Hilltop Hitching Post.
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Fort Peck Rock Creek Ice Update: Rapid Deterioration After Warm, Windy Days—Use Extreme Caution
Read More: Fort Peck Rock Creek Ice Update: Rapid Deterioration After Warm, Windy Days—Use Extreme CautionRock Creek ice briefly improved with last week’s colder weather, but recent warmth and wind have quickly degraded conditions. With no real cold ahead, the ice season is wrapping up—use extreme caution even on foot, as shifting ice and soft shorelines are increasing risk.
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Bitterroot Lake Ice Report (Feb. 25, 2026): 5–5.5 Inches Most Areas Ahead of Margo’s March Madness Derby
Read More: Bitterroot Lake Ice Report (Feb. 25, 2026): 5–5.5 Inches Most Areas Ahead of Margo’s March Madness DerbyBitterroot Lake is fishable heading into Margo’s March Madness Fishing Derby (Feb. 28–March 1). As of Feb. 25, 2026: no snow on the ice, mostly clear visibility, and roughly 5–5.5 inches of ice in most areas (about 8 inches at the north-end county boat ramp). Still, watch for pressure ridges and cracks—and remember mandatory check-in…
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Yellowstone River Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Cold Water, Sluggish Fish, Best Nymph & Streamer Tips + Fly List
Read More: Yellowstone River Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Cold Water, Sluggish Fish, Best Nymph & Streamer Tips + Fly ListIce and slush have mostly melted, but the Yellowstone River is still very cold and fish are sluggish. Nymphing is the most effective approach right now; if you throw streamers, plan on a slow-motion strip or swing. Watch for spotty midge hatches depending on wind, and pay close attention to forecasts, wind, and potential ice…
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Tongue River Marina Ice Report (Feb. 20): Open Water Near Campers Point & Possible Hidden Weak Ice
Read More: Tongue River Marina Ice Report (Feb. 20): Open Water Near Campers Point & Possible Hidden Weak IceFeb. 20 update: Open water is visible near Campers Point South (from the road) and reported off Campers Point North by the pond. Warm temps, wind, and snow cover may be creating hidden weak spots and thin-ice “bridges”—use extreme caution.
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Hell Creek Marina Ice Report (Feb. 22, 2026): SxS OK to Lucky Point, 4-Wheelers to Johnson; Main Lake Open
Read More: Hell Creek Marina Ice Report (Feb. 22, 2026): SxS OK to Lucky Point, 4-Wheelers to Johnson; Main Lake OpenHell Creek Marina’s Feb. 22, 2026 ice update says a cold snap improved conditions: SxS are reported good to Lucky Point, 4-wheelers from Lucky Point to Johnson, with questionable ice beyond Johnson. The main lake is reported open—watch for changing conditions.
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Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Final Winter Update + Urgent Ice Safety Warning as Canyon Ferry Opens Up
Read More: Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Final Winter Update + Urgent Ice Safety Warning as Canyon Ferry Opens UpFinal winter fishing report for Helena-area reservoirs before updates resume in April. Ice is highly variable and can change fast, and Canyon Ferry’s south end is seeing expanding open water that’s undermining nearby ice—use extreme caution on any ice.
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NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s Biting
Read More: NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s BitingFrom Chancy’s Fish Camp in Evergreen, MT: ice conditions are a mixed bag across NW Montana—some lakes still have decent ice, others are getting questionable, and a few are leaning into “boat season” vibes. Here’s what to watch for (including pressure ridges) and what anglers are targeting: perch, salmon through the ice, plus trolling for…
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Fort Peck Lake Ice Update: Main Lake Re-Capped Overnight—Marina Says It’s “Absolutely Not” Safe to Fish
Read More: Fort Peck Lake Ice Update: Main Lake Re-Capped Overnight—Marina Says It’s “Absolutely Not” Safe to FishAfter last night’s refreeze, Fort Peck Lake’s main lake has capped over again—but Fort Peck Marina says it’s “ABSOLUTELY not” safe to fish. Read the latest observations and safety guidance before you head out.
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Fort Peck Ice Conditions Near the Dam (Feb. 19, 2026): Don Wilkins Checks the Main Channel and Surrounding Areas
Read More: Fort Peck Ice Conditions Near the Dam (Feb. 19, 2026): Don Wilkins Checks the Main Channel and Surrounding AreasWith questions swirling from anglers, Don Wilkins went out to verify current ice conditions near the Fort Peck Dam. He checked the main channel and surrounding areas firsthand to give a clearer picture of what’s out there right now.
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Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 19, 2026): Significant Open Water, Shorelines Opening Up, Real Feel -16°
Read More: Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 19, 2026): Significant Open Water, Shorelines Opening Up, Real Feel -16°Not much has changed in the ice’s favor at Fort Peck Lake this week. Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop reports significant open water with pockets throughout remaining ice, with shelf ice and shorelines continuing to open up. Snow has started and the “real feel” temperature is -16°. Safety first on the ice.
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Flathead Area Fishing Report (Feb. 18, 2026): Ice Depths, Open-Water Hot Spots, and McGregor Tournament Update
Read More: Flathead Area Fishing Report (Feb. 18, 2026): Ice Depths, Open-Water Hot Spots, and McGregor Tournament UpdateMacman’s latest Flathead-area fishing report: Browns Lake is around 10 inches of ice and Upper Thompson about 6, but no ice is truly safe. Lake Mary Ronan and Flathead River sloughs are in good shape, colder temps should help, and McGregor Lake hosts a combo ice/open-water tournament next weekend. For open water, Yellow Bay has…
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Fort Peck Ice Update: 20–30 mph Winds Break Up Remaining Sheets, Leaving Unstable Ice and Open Water
Read More: Fort Peck Ice Update: 20–30 mph Winds Break Up Remaining Sheets, Leaving Unstable Ice and Open WaterStrong 20–30 mph winds are rapidly changing conditions on Fort Peck. Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop reports remaining ice sheets have broken up, leaving a mix of wide-open water and unstable, fragmented ice—use extreme caution and avoid questionable surfaces.
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Ice Safety Update: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Says Lake Is Blown Open—No Safe Ice Access
Read More: Ice Safety Update: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Says Lake Is Blown Open—No Safe Ice AccessLakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop shared an update (Feb. 17, ~6:30 p.m.) warning that the ice “did not make it” and the lake is blown open with no safe access. More updates are expected after the storm passes.
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Helena Area Fishing & Ice Report (Feb. 17, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter & Helena Valley Reservoir
Read More: Helena Area Fishing & Ice Report (Feb. 17, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter & Helena Valley ReservoirMontana FWP’s latest Helena-area reservoir update: ice is extremely variable, with open water in spots. Here’s where anglers are finding rainbows, walleye, perch, kokanee, and burbot—plus what’s being used and where conditions are unsafe.
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Canyon Ferry Ice Update (Feb. 16): Open Water From the Dam to Confederate Gulch, But Hidden Ice Still Lingers
Read More: Canyon Ferry Ice Update (Feb. 16): Open Water From the Dam to Confederate Gulch, But Hidden Ice Still LingersAnglers report Canyon Ferry is in transition: part ice, part open water, and heavily wind-dependent. Reports say it’s open from the dam to roughly Confederate Gulch, with much of the north end showing open water—but a lingering ice sheet past the Silos boat launch may be hard to spot from a distance. Use caution before…
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February Fishing Report: Missouri River Strategies
Read More: February Fishing Report: Missouri River StrategiesThe Missouri River fishing is improving despite some wind, with nymphing and midges being effective. Focus on subsurface techniques and smaller streamers for success during winter outings.
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The Thrill of Catching Largemouth Bass Under Ice
Read More: The Thrill of Catching Largemouth Bass Under IceThe video showcases a large largemouth bass beneath ice, demonstrating that these fish remain active in winter. Ice fishing persists as a popular winter activity, targeting various species, including bass.
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NW Montana Fishing Report 2.12.26
Read More: NW Montana Fishing Report 2.12.26The Murphy lake derby is canceled, but several others remain active. Ice conditions vary, with good fishing reported for perch, salmon, and pike across various lakes. Stay safe on the ice.
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Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck, MT Fishing Report 2.13.26
Read More: Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck, MT Fishing Report 2.13.26Despite warm weather, ice conditions remain stable with 7-13 inches in various areas. Fishing activity is slowing, but decent catches persist. Caution is advised as temperatures are expected to drop soon.
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Don Wilkins’ 15-Minute Battle on the Ice
Read More: Don Wilkins’ 15-Minute Battle on the IceWhat started as just another drop through the ice quickly turned into something much bigger for angler Don Wilkins. Almost […]
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Tongue River Marina Ice Update 2.10.26
Read More: Tongue River Marina Ice Update 2.10.26Ice conditions at Tongue River Marina are unstable, with melting shoreline ice and only an inch of edge ice. Anglers are advised to exercise caution until temperatures drop and conditions improve.
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Dillon, MT Beaverhead River Fishing Report 2.9.26
Read More: Dillon, MT Beaverhead River Fishing Report 2.9.26Recent fishing conditions on the Beaverhead have been challenging due to low flows and clear water. Success requires stealth and patience, with anglers advised to use longer leaders and fish deeper with specific nymphs.
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Open Water Alert: Fishing Conditions at First Lake Near Havre, MT
Read More: Open Water Alert: Fishing Conditions at First Lake Near Havre, MTFirst Lake near Havre has ample open water according to social media reports, with locals encouraging boat use. Fresno Lake has also opened, indicating early opportunities for fishing.
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Highlights from the 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Glasgow
Read More: Highlights from the 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in GlasgowThe 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Glasgow attracted 150 participants despite warm weather, featuring competitions and prizes, including a $2,000 win for a 5.34-pound pike and free rods for youth anglers.
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February 2026 Fishing Report: Glacier National Park & Flathead Valley
Read More: February 2026 Fishing Report: Glacier National Park & Flathead ValleyFebruary fishing in Glacier National Park and Flathead Valley is unusually favorable due to mild temperatures and low snow, with anglers successfully using nymphs and streamers in altered winter conditions.
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Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.9.26
Read More: Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.9.26Anglers should exercise caution due to varying ice conditions. Fishing yields include rainbows at Canyon Ferry and Helena Valley, while Hauser and Holter have mostly open water and unstable ice.
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Fort Peck, MT Duck Creek Ice Update 2.6.26
Read More: Fort Peck, MT Duck Creek Ice Update 2.6.26Lakeride Lodging advises caution with current ice conditions, reporting approximately 5.5 inches of ice but acknowledging cracks and open water. Walking is recommended for safety while fishing.
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Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Ice & Fishing Report 2.6.26
Read More: Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Ice & Fishing Report 2.6.26Ice conditions and fishing varied this week in Rock Creek and McGuire. Reports noted strong northern bites in shallow water but melting shorelines and changing ice thickness require caution for safety.
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Fort Peck’s Duck Creek Ice Report 2.5.26
Read More: Fort Peck’s Duck Creek Ice Report 2.5.26Lakeridge Lodging reports about 6 inches of ice on Duck Creek at Fort Peck Reservoir. Shorelines are becoming unstable, urging safe walk-on access and caution during winter activities.
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Livingtson, MT Yellowstone River Fishing Report 2.5.26
Read More: Livingtson, MT Yellowstone River Fishing Report 2.5.26Winter conditions persist in Yellowstone, with frigid water temperatures and sluggish fish behavior. Nymphing is most effective, while ice and wind complicate fishing. Stay alert to changing conditions.
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Clark Canyon Reservoir Ice Report 2.3.26
Read More: Clark Canyon Reservoir Ice Report 2.3.26At Clark Canyon Reservoir, reports from anglers in ice fishing groups are stating that ice conditions are beginning to change. […]
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Join the Fun: Denise Schlegel Memorial Fishing Tournament 2026
Read More: Join the Fun: Denise Schlegel Memorial Fishing Tournament 2026The 3rd Annual Margo’s March Madness Fishing Tournament takes place February 28 and March 1, 2026, at Bitterroot Lake, promoting community, family fun, and honoring Denise Schlegel.
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Catch Big Fish and Win Prizes at Georgetown Lake
Read More: Catch Big Fish and Win Prizes at Georgetown LakeIf you’ve ever looked at a fish and thought, “Yeah… that one deserves some recognition,” The Lakehouse at Georgetown Lake […]
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New Idaho State Record Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Caught Ice Fishing
Read More: New Idaho State Record Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Caught Ice FishingThe mere act of even catching a Yellowstone cutthroat is a bucket list for many anglers. This one broke a record
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Bighorn River, MT Fishing Report for 2.1.26
Read More: Bighorn River, MT Fishing Report for 2.1.26Winter fishing on the Bighorn River is effective with trout lying deep. Key tactics include deep nymphing and slow streamers, focusing on stealth and depth due to cold conditions. Rainbows and browns are selective.
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Fish Hog vs Groundhog: Winter Predictions
Read More: Fish Hog vs Groundhog: Winter PredictionsGarrett Ostler’s entertaining video features a trout, dubbed a “fish hog,” predicting six more weeks of winter, offering anglers a lighthearted perspective on the season’s chilly performance.
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Fort Peck Marina Fishing Highlights with Kyle Mcgaugh
Read More: Fort Peck Marina Fishing Highlights with Kyle McgaughKyle McGaugh and his crew had a successful fishing trip despite deteriorating ice conditions. They caught nice fish and emphasized the importance of safety and monitoring changing weather conditions.
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Cheyenne’s Fishing Success at Montana’s Georgetown Lake
Read More: Cheyenne’s Fishing Success at Montana’s Georgetown LakeCheyenne Chase caught a remarkable 3.83 lb fish at Georgetown Lake, showcasing the joy of fishing for kids. It highlights confidence, memorable experiences, and the rewards of patience.